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Deuteronomy 5:1-21

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  Deuteronomy 5:1-21 begin the review of the Law with the Ten Commandments. In renewing the covenant, this generation was to hear, learn, and follow carefully the statutes and judgments given at Mt. Sinai (ref. Exodus 20:1-17). The first four commandments focus on relationship with God, while the last six address relationships with others. For the command on keeping the Sabbath holy, Exodus 20:11 emphasizes the day of rest as instituted by God at Creation, while Deuteronomy 5:15 adds that it is a reminder of their freedom from slavery. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-6 Though we are saved by grace and are not under the law, why is it still important for us to HEAR, LEARN, and OBEY the law of the LORD? Verses 7-21 How well am I following the Ten Commandments, which Jesus summarized as Loving God and Loving our Neighbors (Matthew 22:34-40; Mark 12:28-34; Luke 10:25-37)? For music inspired by the Ten Commandments, foll
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Deuteronomy 4:32-49

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  Deuteronomy 4:32-49 lead into the main body of Deuteronomy, where the Law is reviewed in chapters 5-28.  The people are reminded that none can compare with the LORD their God.  As a fitting response , they are encouraged to follow God's Law that it may go well with them in the Promised Land.  Moses leads by example, obeying God's command to set apart cities of refuge in the conquered Transjordan region; though the remaining cities of refuge were to be established after taking possession of the Promised Land (ref. Numbers 35:9-34). The same Law that was given to the first generation is now to be reviewed during this pivotal transition into the Promised Land. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 32-39 In what ways has God also demonstrated to me that there is "no other besides Him"? Verse 40 How should I respond to the honor of being chosen to be in relationship with a loving and awesome God? Verses 41-43
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Deuteronomy 4:15-31

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  Deuteronomy 4:15-31 warn against idolatry, emphasizing that worship should be directed to the Creator rather than what is created. God delivered His people from the "iron furnace" of Egypt to be His treasured possession. However, due to His zeal for righteousness, they will be driven from the land and destroyed if they forget the covenant. Yet, God remains faithful, offering the hope that they will be able to seek the LORD, turn back to Him, and obey His commandments. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 15-24 These verses are filled with warnings against idolatry.  What modern "idols" do I particularly need to watch myself carefully against? Moses's repetition of his inability to enter the Promised Land may indicate disappointment and regret ( ref. 1:37, 3:26-27, 4:21-22, Numbers 20:1-13 ).  What can I learn from the disappointments and regrets of my past actions? Verses 25-28 Based on Israel'
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Deuteronomy 4:1-14

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  Deuteronomy 4:1-14 emphasize the importance of obeying God's commands. In the preceding chapters, Moses recounted past events that brought the Israelites to this point.  Now, Moses transitions to exhorting the people to obey and fear God, live in the Promised Land as a testament to their wisdom and understanding under a righteous God, remember His commands, and teach future generations. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-2 In preparation for Israel to "go in and take possession of the land," Moses does not focus on military strategies and tactics of war, but reminds them to obey God's commands.  What does this show me about the primary importance of obeying God? Verses 3-5 The sin and consequences of Baal worship at Beth Peor are recorded in Numbers 25.  What point is taught by recounting this tragic story? Verses 6-8 How are the people of God to be different from those in the world around us? Verse
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Deuteronomy 3:18-29

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  Deuteronomy 3:18-29 recount that even though the Reubenites, Gadites, and Manassites have been given land to possess, they still needed to fight alongside the other tribes in the Promised Land (ref. Numbers 32:6-7). Also, Joshua is given charge and encouragement as the next leader, since Moses is not allowed to enter the Promised Land.  However, Moses is given the opportunity to see the land from the top of Mount Pisgah. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 18-20 How can I support and encourage others in the family of God as they fight their battles? Verses 21-22 In what ways does God fight for me? Verses 23-29 Moses was not allowed to enter the Promised Land as a consequence of his sin (ref. Deut. 1:37; Num. 20:1-13), but pleads for God to let him "go over and see the good land" (v. 25).  What are some reasons why God might sometimes answer "No" to our prayer requests? Moses mentored Joshua for many
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Deuteronomy 3:1-17

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  Deuteronomy 3:1-17 recount the defeat of King Og of Bashan. The last few verses describe the allocation of the conquered Transjordan lands to Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh.  The victory over Og is also included in Numbers 21:33-35, Deuteronomy 1:4, and Psalm 135:11, while the land allocation is also recorded in Numbers 32. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-11 King Og was a giant (Verse 11 tells us his iron bed was about 13 feet long).  Yet, God told Israel not to fear him in battle.  What are some seemingly "giant" problems in our lives that we do not need to fear, because God can give us victory over them? Verses 12-17 God granted the request of the Reubenites, Gadites, and Manassites to settle in land that was outside of the Promised Land (and is no longer part of Israel today).  What might this show me about my own prayer requests?
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Deuteronomy 2:16-37

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  Deuteronomy 2:16-37 continue narrating the Israelites' journey northward.  As with the Edomites and Moabites, they were not to battle the Ammonites (also descendants of Lot).  In contrast, God does give them victory when Sihon the king of Heshbon, with hardened heart, came out against Israel and would not let them pass.  This victory is also included in Numbers 21:21-30, Deuteronomy 1:4, and Psalm 135:11. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 16-23 How would hearing about the Ammonites defeating the Zamzummim and Caphtorim be an encouragement? Verses 24-25 In Genesis 15:16 & 21, God included the land of the Amorites in His Plan told to Abraham.  What do these verses show me about God's Plan? Verses 26-37 God gave complete victory over Sihon and "there was not a city too high" (v. 36).  When are times that I can be assured of victory in my own battles?
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